DNA Based Identification

Abstract

No single biometric technique provides an optimal identification method in all cases. However, depending on the biological system, a particular biometric may stand out as the preferred method of identification. DNA profiling clearly emerges as the most powerful and reliable system for measuring genetic traits. DNA typing provides valuable information in such diverse applications as medical science, environmental science, historical research, and, of course, forensic science. In this chapter, we review the most common genetic typing systems and the laboratory techniques employed to analyze the markers. We discuss the precautions that must be taken in collecting samples and the consequences of analyzing non-optimal material. Of particular interest from a societal standpoint is the creation of DNA databanks and the privacy issues associated with them. Finally, when two samples appear to be indistinguishable by the tests conducted, the significance of the association must then be determined. The methods by which the rarity of a genetic profile is determined provide the DNA typing community with it’s most fertile ground for debate. We review the major elements of the discussion here. With the advent of solid state and automated methods for DNA typing, the technique will soon become not only indispensable, but practical.